A Secret Intimate Elopement At Dixon Art Gallery + Gardens In Memphis, Tennessee | The Hatches Photography

Emily Hatch January 16, 2023

Secret Garden Elopement at Dixon Gallery in Memphis, TN

Mr + Mrs Del Casino - November 3, 2022

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Ryan and Jasmine live in Nashville but were visiting Memphis one weekend in October of 2022 to see one of their favorite bands at a locally known favorite bar, Growlers. You can find this hidden gem on Poplar Ave, across from Brooks Museum and The Memphis Zoo. The band they were seeing was also a favorite of ours, Real Friends. While we didn’t get to see the show with them, they did manage to hang out with me on a rooftop downtown for some celebratory engagement photos.

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We had been discussing their elopement prior to their engagement photos, but the kicker was that no one else knew about it except their parents. Now we had to keep this HUGE secret until November 3, 2022 where they tied the knot in a beautiful and intimate garden ceremony at The Dixon Art Gallery and Gardens. I had the incredible pleasure to witness their union as well as work alongside the incredibly talented videographers, Cine Garden Films. This was my first time working with Rob and Adalynn and I hope its not the last time, they were absolutely phenomenal!

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We started out at this cute little airbnb that was located in the Midtown area. Not too far from Cooper Young District. Jasmine was getting her hair and makeup done by Kimberly Yasmine, a luxury makeup artist, when I arrived to the house. Ryan was safely tucked away in a back bedroom getting ready as well. At this point they had not seen each other yet so they were getting all the excitement of knowing they were about to see each other, finally!

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Once they both were ready and mic’d up, we were all set for the first look. You could see the pure joy start to flood their faces as we were getting everyone in their places. We stepped outside into the backyard of this adorable AirBNB and let Jasmine and Ryan set the whole mood.

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What a blast we were having already and we hadn’t made it to Dixon, yet!

After we arrived at The Dixon Art Gallery + Gardens, we walked through the pathway to get to the Bowlin Stage. Taking in their surroundings and swaying across the path together, I could tell right away that this was something truly special to witness. The way they were so comfortable around each other and truly being present when they spoke to each other was simply awe-inspiring. I was overwhelmed with gratitude and creativity but I could not have made this magic by myself if I tried.

Jasmine and Ryan : I wish you nothing but the best in life and all of its adventure that it will take you both on. I hope you hold hands like its your first date; every day. Thank you so much for allowing me to witness your incredible love story and for trusting me to document it with lovely photos. I hope you look at these forever. I sure am! <3 Congratulations Del Casinos!

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Venue : Dixon Art Gallery + Gardens | Memphis, TN

Photography : The Hatches Photography

Videography : Cine Garden Films

Hair + Makeup : Kimberly Yasmine

Intimate Garden Elopement at Memphis Botanic Garden | Shelbe + Tevin Moore | The Hatches Wedding + Elopement Photography

Emily Hatch May 11, 2018

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Mr & Mrs Tevin Moore

Meet one of my favorite couples to date, Shelbe and Tevin Moore.

Little backstory : Shelbe is actually a teacher at Senatobia Elementary (my hometown) and one of her students is the daughter of my uncle who recently passed away from Cystic Fibrosis. Layton spoke very highly of her teacher and I can see why!

We met back in November of 2016 after her fiance, Tevin saw pictures of another couple I had taken and both him and Shelbe wanted Jacob and I for their wedding!
Needless to say, we met, talked all things wedding and I was completely hooked on them as a couple. I could have talked with them for hours!

They were planning an elaborate wedding at Hillwood at Davies Manor and things were going smoothly, or so I thought.....

Until I got that text message from Shelbe saying how STRESSFUL wedding planning was becoming so they were going to elope a couple months ahead of schedule instead with their closest family. They whipped up different plans in a matter of days and we set the new date for August 22, 2017 at Memphis Botanic Garden.

I. Was. PUMPED.

The chapel at the Memphis Botanic Garden had been a bucket list venue of mine since I started shooting weddings in 2014. New favorite venue + this stunning couple? YES PLEASE.

They had an intimate ceremony with their closest family and friends and it was an absolute joy to be able to witness such a union between two endearing souls. Tevin cried, their moms cried, I cried.... I think I saw Kelsey with Connor & Co. cry too.

It might have been incredibly hot being in August in the south but Tevin and Shelbe rocked that heat on their wedding day like it was going in the next issue of Vogue.

We worked with incredible people, as always, Kimberly Yasmine for make-up and Kelsey Connor with Connor & Co. for her planning, florals and design.

Here is a glimpse into our day with The Moore's for their intimate garden elopement and we can't wait for their Day After Session! <3 We love you guys!!

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A Bohemian Inspired Waterfall Wedding | Gatlinburg, Tennessee | The Hatches : Wedding + Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch July 12, 2017

MR & MRS CHURCHILL

When I first had my meeting with Brianna, she had already filled me in on how determined she was to have us photograph her wedding day. This girl stole my heart from the very start. I couldn't get over her precious little family and her gypsy heart. She was my free spirit bride. Heck if it wouldn't have been 28 degrees during their engagement session, she would have gone barefoot.
(Note : I looked out for her safety haha, no frozen piggies here!)

Brianna, Kelsey (Connor & Co.) and I all sat down at Muddy's in Midtown and began planning away. The more Brianna talked about her wedding, the more I fell in love. With her, the idea of her wedding and her ADORABLE family. Just wait until you see them, SO CUTE.

It was calling for rain all day for her wedding. Yet there wasn't a cloud in the sky on the day of. We got so much sunshine. It was glorious! Most of everything for their wedding was done by friends and family, and the florals were bought wholesale and put together by Kelsey. I even had the pleasure of helping and donated some decor and made Brianna's floral crown for her.

This family quickly became my family, too. They're WHOLE family, yes WHOLE, was so inviting and so caring and made sure that Jacob and I were more than comfortable during our stay. We spent the whole weekend with them!

During their reception, Brianna made a special video for Cody. I won't spoil it, I'll let you see as you scroll down ;) But their daughter also had some news that she was too excited to share. So during Brianna's mom's speech, Aubrey announced that she was getting a little baby sister or brother. It was PRICELESS! And a surprise to their guests!

Unfortunately, after a couple of weeks, Baby C was born sleeping. My heart shattered in two for this family. I am so glad that they have become so dear to me and my family. I know that I am attracting the right clients for me because they all become my family by their wedding day.

Brianna and Cody are some of the most genuine hearted people I have ever met. I am honored to call them friends and humbled to have been able to document their milestone in life.

Here are some of our favorites from their wedding day in Gatlinburg! See their awesome vendors at the bottom! <3

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Brianna's gift to Cody was simply priceless. She gathered up pictures from all over the world that had notes on them from strangers on Facebook saying how far Brianna's love reached for him. He cried. She cried. Their parents cried. It was so moving.

Venue : Serenity Falls Cabins & Rentals

Dress : Coco Medley

Flowers : Kelsey Connor

Floral Crown : Emily Hatch

Coordinator / Planner : Connor & Co.

Photography : The Hatches Wedding + Elopement Photography

A Cloudy Romantic Engagement | Downtown Memphis - Spring Creek Ranch | Memphis Tennessee | The Hatches Wedding and Elopement Photographers

Emily Hatch April 27, 2017

JESSICA & JORDAN | ENGAGED

The Hatches | Memphis, Tennessee Wedding Photographers | Destination and Elopement Photographers | memphis-nashville-tennessee-utah-colorado-arkansas-washington-norway-arizona-wedding-photographer-elopement-unique-moody-modern-minimalist-journalisti…

Meet Jessica and Jordan. One couple who was beyond my expectations for clients. I can say that by the end of this post you'll have fallen in love with them, too.

Jessica is full of life and has the most contagious laugh. Jordan thinks the world of Jessica. Their love seeped into the images we created that day. It was almost impossible for them to take a bad picture! We started at an automotive shop not far from their wedding venue, Loflin Yard. It was rather cold, after all it was January, so getting inside the building made for some fun and cozy shots. We were even welcomed by a train! Haha. I don't know who had more fun, the conductor or Jessica! :P

We made our way towards Spring Creek Ranch for their second location and when we arrived, it blew my mind! The staff was more than accommodating and went way out of their way to make sure we had a great time enduring the cold and windy weather.

After stocking up on hot coffee and heated golf carts we proceeded to ride around the golf course and pick different spots to play around in! We had a ball. From wrong turns to jumping in and out long enough to warm our hands and feet.

Their wedding is Wednesday, May 3 at Loflin Yard and we cannot WAIT to watch these two become one at this eclectic venue and work alongside some AMAZING vendors such as Pickler Events, Deedra Stone, White Door Events and Klassey Productions!

We will see you guys soon!! <3

A Playful Sunrise Anniversary Session | Shira + Wesley | The Hatches - Memphis Wedding Photographers

Emily Hatch November 13, 2016

A PLAYFUL SUNRISE ANNIVERSARY SESSION

SHIRA + WESLEY | MEMPHIS TENNESSEE

WOW. That's what I'm going to start with. Shira and Wesley were every photographer's DREAM to capture. From the moment they stepped out of their car to the very last frame, they lit up the world around them. When Shira smiled, Wesley smiled. When Wesley laughed, Shira laughed. I had never met a couple more in sync like these two.

They both, despite the freezing cold, had me laughing until my sides hurt. They were so... energetic and full of love and emotion for each other, I had VERY little direction to give them. I literally sat and soaked up every second of their relationship. And I have ZERO complaints.

Shira is also a photographer, Shira Marie Photography, so photographing them came as easy as their love for each other. Wesley admires Shira. You could see it in his face. And Shira adores Wesley, you can see it in her smile. I LOVE these two, I hope I get to photograph them again!

Here are some of my absolute faves, I hope you guys enjoy! <3

The Hatches | Sunrise Anniversary Session | Shira + Wesley | memphis-tennessee-sunrise-anniversary-session-marriage-intimate-fun-eccentric-bright-couples-romantic-adventurous-playful

A Moody and Adventurous Engagement | Fall Creek Falls | The Hatches - Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers

Emily Hatch November 10, 2016

A MOODY & ADVENTUROUS ENGAGEMENT

FALL CREEK FALLS

JEREMY + AMANDA

The Hatches | A Moody and Adventurous Engagement Session | Falls Creek Falls | Cookeville, Tennessee | Memphis Tennessee Elopement and Wedding Photographers | memphis-tennessee-elopement-and-wedding-photographer-fall-creek-falls-cookeville-utah-colo…

Jeremy + Amanda contacted us for an Adventure Session as their engagement session a few months ago and we immediately started looking for a new park to go explore. She sent me a few waterfall choices and we were totally in love with Fall Creek Falls in Cookeville, TN.

We got to know Jeremy + Amanda and they got to know us. We talked about hobbies, bands, movies and laughed at ourselves more than anything, we found out none of us are very coordinated when walking narrow trails haha.

We met at the suspension bridge and then proceeded to walk further into the woods. I tell you there is nothing better than a few walks in the woods. I say a few because we walked the same trail 3 times due to being unsure which way to go lol. Needless to say we always have fun on these types of sessions.

Locked away from cell phone service, we let Jeremy + Amanda take their time with each other and really embrace their love for each other. Its hard to narrow down when we get couples like J + A who make our job so easy. Here are some of our favorites from their session!!

Now.... let's schedule a movie night ;)

" I'VE FALLEN IN LOVE WITH ADVENTURES; SO I BEGIN TO WONDER, IF THAT'S WHY I'VE FALLEN FOR YOU."

A Sweet and Spunky Senior Session | Olivia - Jackson, MS | The Hatches | Memphis Tennessee Senior Photographer

Emily Hatch October 6, 2016

O L I V I A C H A N D L E R

HI GUYS. Meet Olivia. One remarkable young lady with all the sass, spunky, carefree and personality you could ever hope for. Olivia and her mother, Cori, drove all the way from Jackson, MS to do her senior portraits with me and I have to say, I was shocked! Flattered more than anything but shock was definitely one of those feelings.

I had no idea that Olivia even knew who I was but she insisted that she had followed me on Instagram and was determined to have me take her senior photos. I think this made the session a little more personal for me. I was humbled, awe struck and full of so much joy that Olivia chose me to photograph her senior pictures. Her and her mother were such a delight and some of the most genuinely hearted people I had met!

Olivia completely K I L L E D her session. Here are just a few highlights of her time with me :)
Thanks so much Olivia and Mrs Cori! <3

The Hatches | Senior Photographer | Memphis Tennessee | Destination Wedding Photographer | memphis-tennessee-senior-portrait-golden-hour-urban-sophisticated-modern-minimal-photography-senior-pose-inspiration

An Affectionate Waterfall Engagement | Nathan & Allie | Petit Jean State Park | Wedding Photographers - The Hatches

Emily Hatch October 5, 2016

NATHAN & ALLIE

I will start this blog off by saying, my legs are STILL SORE. Although that could be argued with the fact that I'm always on a trail of some sort, hiking into some kind of wooded area.

We took separate vehicles and used Snapchat to fire questions back and forth to each other. We probably had the most fun with this. It helped us get Allie and Nathan's interests and hobbies and quirky little stories and helped them open up to us and really let us in on their love life.
Not in a "nosey" kind of way but in a way where we could all trust each other enough to get the emotions and vibes we were trying to pull from them.

"What is something that Nathan is stronger with where you are weaker?"

"What's your favorite thing to do on Sunday mornings?"

"What is something that you two are looking forward to on your wedding day?"

We were completely blown away at the chemistry between these two. The laughs, the talks, the movements, all of it, simply intimate. We didn't pay attention to time or the people around us, we were just living in the moment and connecting with new friends. I, for one, am SO excited for their spring wedding at the beautiful venue, Bonne Terre.

May can't come fast enough and we cannot wait to celebrate you guys ALL DAY as you take your next step into the adventure of marriage <3

Thank you both for allowing Jacob and I to invade your personal space and make some magic with ya ;)

The Hatches | Petit Jean State Park | Waterfall Engagement Session | Destination Wedding Photographers | petit-jean-state-park-engagement-session-moody-romantic-unique-adventurous-wedding-photographer

An Elegant And Modern Midtown Wedding | David and Jennifer | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | The Hatches

Emily Hatch August 19, 2016

DAVID + JENNIFER

It was a romantic setting for David and Jennifer as we gathered at this inanely beautiful Italian restaurant, The Farmer, in the heart of Midtown Memphis, Tn.

Jennifer and I had met prior to their wedding and she told me all about this cute little place, but I had NO idea that it was this freaking gorgeous.

Talk about every photographer's dream venue!

It was so simple and filled with greenery and every shade of florals all around the corners. It pains me to say that they have moved since I photographed this wedding but my word, pictures don't do this place justice.

BUT! The night was only getting so much better.

When Jennifer arrived, I had just finished getting some detail shots of the venue and of their decor when I turned the corner and stopped DEAD in my tracks. Jennifer had the most BEAUTIFUL white satin dress on and I was BLOWN away. I'm not kidding. She was, without a doubt, a complete knock-out!

David's reaction (pictured below) was extremely close to my very own!

Jacob and I couldn't have been more excited to be able to witness such a presence of love and fellowship between friends. We can't thank David and Jennifer enough for allowing us the honor of documenting their wedding day. We wish you guys many years of happiness as you embrace this journey in your life ahead! <3

Emily + Jacob Photography | The Hatches | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | David & Jennifer | An Elegant Midtown Wedding at The Farmer | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-italian-restaurant-modern-elegant-satin-dress-twinkle-lights-brid…

VENUE / CATERING : THE FARMER

PHOTOGRAPHERS : EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

DRESS : LOW'S BRIDAL

HAIR : LINDSEY GAMMEL

MAKEUP : KENDRICK SIMPSON

CAKE : MISS MUFF'N BAKERY

COORDINATOR : ANNA CAROTHERS

An Intimate Mountainside Wedding in Gatlinburg, Tennessee | Ethan and Shana | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers | The Hatches

Emily Hatch August 14, 2016

Ethan and Shana Stanford | Gatlinburg Tennessee

An Intimate Mountainside Wedding

It's always fun to hear from friends in your past about documenting their futures. For some reason it makes it that much more to take in. Emotionally. For me, at least.

I grew up playing ball with Shana, Sabrina and Cameron as well as having their mom as my 5th grade teacher. We are from a small town haha. Needless to say, when Shana contacted me to photographer her wedding, I was jumping for joy! I photographed her sister, Sabrina's wedding back in 2014 so naturally I was excited to be back with their family!

After talking about the venue and how much their small wedding meant to them, I was that much more excited for them and to have the opportunity to help them relive this day over and over again. Shana was not your typical bride as she was requesting photos for more of an adventurous person, which is right up my alley! When Shana mentioned the river, I was ready to jump right in. Some of my favorite bride and groom portraits are in this river.

It was so nice to meet Ethan and his side of the family as they were all very welcoming and accommodating. I had such a great time visiting with everyone and capturing Shana and Ethan's wedding day, I truly appreciate you guys asking me and I feel honored to have been a part of your day!

Here are the highlights of their day!

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographers | Ethan and Shana | An Intimate Mountainside Wedding | gatlinburg-tennessee-wedding-photographer-an-intimate-mountainside-wedding-rustic-cabin-bride-and-groom-in-creek-modern-portra…

Venue : Scatterridge Wedding Chapel

Location : Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Contact : scatterridgepm@gmail.com

Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Andrew and Kelsey | Emily + Jacob Photography

Emily Hatch August 10, 2016

A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer| Mr and Mrs Cupples

June was an incredibly busy month for weddings and it was the hottest. No one let the heat interrupt their moods though, this wedding was one for the books!
My husband must be popular in the DeSoto area because most of my brides from this year and next have gone to school with him, or his brother, or at least know someone who knows him (so it seems like haha).

Kelsey was the most relaxed bride and she could care less if anything went wrong that day. She knew by nightfall that she would be Mrs Andrew Cupples, regardless. The BEST attitude to have. I know brides stress over things being absolutely perfect but it's not worth letting it get to you on your wedding day. Enjoy the little moments because the day will pass you by before you finish blinking.

As you'll be able to tell when you scroll down a ways, during reception Kelsey and Andrew had one kick ass DJ : R&R Productions. And people let me tell you, he made the entire room dance. You just couldn't sit still while he was mixing.

Jacob and I were beyond thrilled to have gotten to spend the day with The Cupples and their closest friends and family and even more humbled that they asked us to document their day. We wish you guys nothing but the best in life and we can't wait to see what the future has in store for your precious family!

A Rustic Golf Club Wedding | Andrew and Kelsey | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | Emily + Jacob Photography | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-a-rustic-golf-course-golf-club-wedding-unique-diy-summer

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VENUE : NORTH CREEK GOLF COURSE

DRESS : LOW'S BRIDAL

DJ : R&R PRODUCTIONS

PHOTOGRAPHERS : EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

TUX : MEN'S WEARHOUSE

'MAIDS DRESSES : CORAL REEF \ DAVID'S BRIDAL

CATERERS : AMBER LOVELL - PINK FLAMINGO CATERING

MAKEUP : ALEXANDRA HALL

HAIR : ADORE SALON - SOUTHAVEN, MS

A Garden Sunrise Anniversary Session | Meagen + Mike | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 28, 2016

Meagen + Mike | A Garden Sunrise Anniversary

MEMPHIS TENNESSEE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

I honestly don't even know where to begin on this post. It's probably why it has taken me so long to write it.

Rewind back to 2013 when Meagen Montgomery sent me a message filled with questions she had found from an article on Pinterest. I answered each one as best as I could and even though I had no idea at the time, we would become best friends. Not to mention the second time I ever met her, was for her boudoir session as her wedding gift to Mike so we got pretty comfortable with each other fairly quickly LOL. We spent a lot of time talking and it later became about things other than wedding related activities. We were on the road to sisterhood (Mrs. Lisa, Meagen's mom, calls us something different haha) that would later develop into one of the most genuine friendships, I've ever encountered. Meagen and I have way more in common than most people think and it's quite hilarious to watch us act similarly without even knowing it. Just ask our husbands LOL. Meagen has taught me what true friendship is and how you can't get a good friend until you become a good friend, yourself. Who knew, right? ;)

Meagen and Mike own a small business, Alexander's Mobile Pet Grooming Service and are actually the very reason we have both of our dogs! Meagen, on the side of working at her parent's medical office in our hometown The Cockrell Family Medical Center, helps immensely with the process of rescuing and fostering dogs in the Mid South area. She has three pit bull dogs of her own and two of those beautiful beings gave me my sweet, brindled Pitbull/Mastiff BABY. Because that's what he is, one big baby. Meagen has one of the BIGGEST hearts I've ever seen when it comes to these precious animals and I am forever grateful to say that I am friends with her gentle soul.

Fast forward to now, 2016. They've been married for 2 years now and are expecting a baby girl in December. You'd never know in the images because Meagen just has a rockin bod. ;) These two people, Meagen and Mike Alexander, have been one of the greatest blessings to my husband and I. I don't know how we grew up in the same town, lived DOWN THE STREET from each other and didn't even meet until we were in our 20's. Heck, our parents went to school with each other! So much for the small town life, huh? HAHA. I love her parents dearly and I am so thankful to be considered part of their family, The Cockrell Family, and continue to watch them grow.

WE LOVE YOU! Of course we had to end the session with a tasty treat because what pregnant lady doesn't want cupcakes? Happy Be-Lated Anniversary! <3

Haley and Joe | Day After Session - Holly Springs, MS

Emily Hatch July 20, 2016

HALEY & JOE

MAY SIXTEENTH TWO THOUSAND FIFTEEEN

I first met Haley years and years ago, probably 20 in fact, and found it fun that Haley had contacted me for photographs after all this time! We both grew up in the same small town and went to the same small town school. We even went to the same small town daycare when we were kids! Another fun fact, we were both married to the love of our lives on May 16, 2015. Haley had contacted me about a Day After Session after explaining the disappointment in her recent experience with wedding photography. There were tons of images she loved but was just a little bummed over certain ones missed. It can happen. Timelines are so important in wedding planning that often we get caught up in the mix of things and lose track from time to time.

I wanted to give Haley and Joe that awesome feeling again. I wanted them to have someone to look back on later so I helped them recreate moments from the day of by getting them to interact in different ways that would pour through their photographs. What I was feeling from them was coming to life on my camera screen.

I heard a friend once quote "You can spend $10,000 on a wedding and hire a $100 photographer and it will look like a $100 wedding. Or you can spend $100 on a wedding and $2000 on a wedding photographer and it will look like a $10,000 wedding."

This is metaphorically speaking, of course, but you get the gist right? Don't hire someone based on their price. Hire someone based on their style. Their personality. Their relationship with their clients. Hire them for the images that drew you to them in the first place. You won't regret it.

For a list of things to look for when hiring your perfect wedding photographer click here for the article, 10 Tips When Searching For Your Perfect Wedding Photographer!

These are some of my favorites from Haley and Joe's session! I hope you guys enjoy them!

"June 28th, 2014 the journey of a lifetime began. I remember this date specifically because it is the day a charmingly outgoing young man approached me at the gym. After some flirting and conversation, he asked for my number and went on with his work out. I remember leaving that night thinking I would never see or talk to this guy again. What a “player” he must be to hit on me at the gym. Little did I know the same man would get down on one knee and ask me to be his wife a little over a year later. Throughout out the beginning of our journey, there were many times I tried to find a reason for it not to work but what some believe as fate, kept bringing us back together; running into each other, hanging out with the same group of friends, obvious signs we could not ignore. Maybe it was fate, but I believe it was God’s plan showing through. I had found the love of my life, the man you read about in fairy tales, and dream about as a little girl, in Joey. And the best part, he wanted to marry ME! Joey is selfless in every way, gives me butterflies with every kiss, and makes me laugh until I physically can’t laugh anymore but then somehow makes me laugh again.

Once I came back down to reality after all the excitement, all the crazy wedding plans began. I found “THE DRESS”. Bridesmaids dresses and the guys suits were done. We were booking the venue, food, reception hall, and the pictures. I thought I was doing everything right; finding the best prices and asking around for opinions of the people I had chosen to help with the big day. I made extra sure about the photographer because pictures are so important to us. We take pictures of EVERYTHING!!! What I soon learned was that other people's opinions are great but they are not your own. What some thought was a great experience, I saw very differently. The day of the wedding, we spent more time looking for the photographer than we did taking pictures. When the photographer did come around, she was yelling at everyone and even had me crying at one point in the day. The pictures we did take were very posed and I did not feel like we were getting any meaningful shots. But I told myself it would be okay because at least the pictures would turn out good. I was wrong again. Once we received the pictures, most were blurry, had shadows over the picture, or the photographer's equipment was in the background. There were so many special moments missed, such as; Joey seeing me for the first time or my daddy and grandaddy seeing me. Sadly, I will never get these moments back. With our one year anniversary approaching, I would still look back at our wedding and emotions would take over. Not the butterfly happy emotions but the disappointed and bitter emotions. I struggled to get past how one person had affected so much of the day.

We decided to retake pictures in my dress and try to recapture some of those special moments missed. This time I did not care about the price, I wanted the best and I fully believe we got the BEST with Emily Hatch. From the first e-mail, I knew this time would be better. She asked questions about the set up of pictures, the time of day we would want, and things we were interested in. We sent pictures back and forth to give her a clear idea of what we wanted and hoped for. With the first photographer, I did not know what to expect, so I did not realize how much she did not get to know us as people or a couple, or care about what WE wanted captured. Emily cared and wanted us to get exactly what we invisioned. It was finally time to retake our pictures. I was so nervous on the way there. I felt confident the pictures would be great because I had already talked to Emily so much about it and had seen her work before, but with the last experience, I wanted it to be perfect. AND IT WAS!!!!! She immediately had us laughing at one another and in the moment. Real emotion was captured with each click of the camera. I remembered our wedding day in a positive light for the first time, with each picture she showed us. No, it wasn’t the real day and no it wasn’t him seeing me for the first time, but it was picture after picture of the love we share for one another and the happiness we bring to each other. Literal tears filled my eyes, knowing that because of Emily and her passion for photography and capturing moments, I would now be able to look at a wedding picture and smile, laugh, and remember it as I should.

My advice, ALWAYS talk to the photographer for yourself. Allow him/her to get to know you and see if your ideas are the same. NEVER let the price determine who you choose for such a special and important job. Photographers will work with you if you really want them. Emily was a complete joy to work with. Contacting her was always easy and she replied quickly each time. The price was by all means doable and WORTH IT!!! She not only wanted to take great pictures but meaningful and emotional pictures as well. My love for Joey and His love for me can be seen so evidently. That’s all you can ask for."

Emily + Jacob Photography | Day After Session - Haley and Joe | Memphis Wedding Photographer | memphis-wedding-photographer-day-after-session-bride-and-groom-nature-haleyandjoe

A Modern Urban Engagement in Downtown Memphis | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 7, 2016

RACHEL & RYAN | MODERN URBAN ENGAGEMENT

"Ryan and I met through his brother, who is one of my closest friends. The first day we became "us" was at a Mississippi State football game. We knew of each other through Connor (his brother), but had never had the opportunity to really get to know one another until that weekend. We spent the entire weekend together, he took me on our first date, and then he had to return back to Jackson MS (an hour away) where he was finishing up his last year of architecture school. I was super disappointed to find out he had just accepted a job in Nashville where he'd be moving within the month. Despite the difficulties of long distance, we decided to try to become a couple. We fell in love with each other quickly, much sooner than either of us had expected, despite the 4.5 hours that separated us. We were a long distance couple for two full years. The last 2 years have flown by and have been filled with so much love, laughter, and adventure.

Taking our engagement pictures with Emily was something I had looked forward to bc I was familiar with her impeccable skill as a photographer. Ryan, however, did not look forward to spending a few hours in front of a camera. It only took a few minutes before we both were aware of how fun Emily was going to make the whole process. Even Ryan admitted that he seriously enjoyed our session! We felt so comfortable around Emily, allowing our session to be super relaxed and fun and allowing us to be ourselves. We never felt posey or awkward. She seriously madethe whole photo shoot so natural, unique, and FUN. We can't wait to spend our wedding day with Emily and Jacob because I know they'll make it such a blast and capture the best moments of our lives in the most beautiful way."

I don't even know where to begin with Ryan and Rachel, I really don't! Rachel and I had communicated through email a ton and we met for coffee at Cafe Eclectic in Harbortown and immediately hit it off. I just knew that her and Ryan were going to be such a fun and outgoing couple! I could literally sit here and talk about how much we laughed during our session and the jokes that were cracked STILL have me laughing. I cannot wait for their absolutely gorgeous wedding in April of next year at Heartwood Hall!

Emily + Jacob Photography | A Modern Urban Engagement in Downtown Memphis | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-modern-urban-engagement-rachelandryan

John David and Aubrey | A Minimal Boho Elopement at Laurel Rose Manor | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch July 6, 2016

A Minimal Boho Elopement at Laurel Rose Manor | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer

A while back in the early spring, I had an idea for a styled elopement at one of my favorite locations, Laurel Rose Manor. It is a beautifully landscaped property located in Mississippi in a secluded area so I knew it was going to be perfect for this intimate setting that I had envisioned.

A tremendous thank you to Mr and Mrs Cockrell for allowing me to come run all over your property with my crew! This won't be the last you see of LRM, as their beautiful daughter Sarah and her fiance Matt are getting married there in the early fall of this year!

*pssst. there might be something else in the works but that's all you can know*

Make up and hair was provided by the ever so talented Abrianna Albonetti. You can find her at Hi-Def Salon located in Southaven, MS next to Maria Cantina's!

Last but not least, I have to thank Aubrey and JD for letting me boss them around for a few hours. I'm beyond grateful that they took time out of their schedules to come and help me bring my thoughts to art.

When I thought about doing this elopement I had immediately thought back to when I used Aubrey and JD for my pink cherry blossom tree shoot and I was so in love with their chemistry, I knew that they would be perfect for this vision, too.

Well, I've been keeping these forever, since before Easter, so I'm excited to finally share these with you all! Enjoy and Thank you! I would love to hear your feedback!

Models : John David and Aubrey Little

MUAH : Abrianna Albonetti

Venue : Laurel Rose Manor

Event Planner/Florals/Decor : Emily Hatch

Photographer : Emily + Jacob Photography

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Tennessee Wedding Photographer | John David and Aubrey Little | Styled Elopement | Laurel Rose Manor | memphis-tennessee-wedding-photographer-styled-elopement-boho-modern-laurel-rose-manor

Josh & Kristina | Waterfall Elopement in Kentucky | Memphis, TN Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch June 16, 2016

JOSH & KRISTINA - An intimate, waterfall elopement in Corbin, Kentucky.

DOG SLAUGHTER FALLS

Don't let the name fool you. Sunday, June 12, 2016

Josh and my husband go way back. Like "highschool buddies, skipping class, late night trips to taco bell" back. I couldn't even begin to tell you all of the stories I've heard from their friendship but it makes me so happy that he's got a best friend like that.

On Saturday, we drove up to Kentucky and scoped out some spots but mostly we just wanted to see Josh and Kristina. We hadn't seen them since WE married more than a year ago! Josh gave us the honor of standing beside Jacob on our wedding day but we were completely humbled when he asked us to photograph his elopement to Kristina. And BOY was I glad that we were there. The atmosphere alone was incomparable. I can usually nail details on describing what I was surrounded by, but I can't. The words aren't there. You just had to be there.

Sunday we got up SO early, but it was totally worth it. I wasn't even my normal grumpy self when I haven't had my coffee yet :P I had traveled with a giant cooler in my backseat so that I could transport the flowers from my favorite florist, Memphis Center City Wholesale in Bartlett. That morning I cut the stems and put the bouquet and Kristina's crown together and we headed to their hotel to help get them ready. I mean they were family to us basically.

We traveled down a dirt road off the highway for a few miles and then hiked a little over a mile to the falls and I fell in love. It's not the biggest waterfall but it was simple and secluded and that's exactly what we were looking for.

We could not have had a better time in Kentucky! We laughed. We cried. We tripped over roots and rocks and slid down hills. And then we laughed some more. I'm so sad that we were all limited on time spent together but this won't be the last we see of them. My heart is so full, we love you guys! CONGRATULATIONS!

MR & MRS SELLERS

Emily + Jacob Photography | Memphis Wedding Photographer | Elopement Photographer - kentucky-wedding-photographer-joshandkristina-elopement-waterfall-fineartphotography

PHOTOGRAPHY - EMILY + JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUE - DOG SLAUGHTER FALLS / CORBIN, KY.

FLORALS/MUAH - EMILY HATCH

Shelbi & Ramsey | Day After Session | Shelby Farms Park | Memphis, TN Wedding Photographer

Emily Hatch June 8, 2016

SHELBI & RAMSEY | DAY AFTER SESSION

SHELBY FARMS PARK | MEMPHIS, TN

Jacob and I had the pleasure of meeting Shelbi and Ramsey over the weekend at Shelby Farms for their intimate Day After session. These are quickly (very quickly) becoming one of my favorite type of sessions. There's nothing more powerful than invested love and it's always fun to reminisce on your wedding day. Sometimes wedding days are hectic and there is so much to take in that you sometimes miss out on things. I, personally, love Day After Sessions because it gives you a chance to be one on one with your spouse in a more relaxed and calming state!

Shelbi and I had been talking about their session and she expressed how they loved their wedding images, but would have loved more time. We set up her appointment after discussing what she liked about our style and how she visioned us capturing their relationship and they took it over! I could have stayed at Shelby Farms all night if they wouldn't have close at 8:00PM. BUT here are some of my favorites from their session!!